Child custody can be a confusing thing to navigate. However, it would be best if you learned more about the system to play a prominent role in your child’s life as a custodial parent.
Here is what you need to know about being a custodial parent and what you can do without your ex or court’s permission.
Spend more time
Custodial parents generally have sole physical custody if their ex is an inmate or the court deems them unfit to house their child. Since they live with you, you can spend more time with your child without anyone’s permission.
Make legal decisions
If you also have sole legal custody, you can make legal decisions regarding your child without consulting your ex. For example, you may only need permission to do something if you are relocating, which will interfere with your ex’s visitation rights.
Handle care tasks
Aside from this, you will be able to handle regular care tasks without permission, including:
- Picking a school
- Helping with homework
- Providing transportation
- Ensuring hygiene
- Coordinating visitation
It means that you are responsible for the care of your child, and your ex is not required to help beyond child support payments.
If you and your ex can negotiate, you might be able to become a custodial parent in a friendly way or without litigation. The key is to write it down and submit your agreement to the judge for approval. Judges will likely agree to the custody terms you and your ex agree on, although they need to consider your child’s best interest as well.